Drive-In Movie Theaters and Events in Chicagoland

Drive-in movie events are making a comeback! They’re the perfect socially distanced night out for the family, and a chance to safely enjoy the fresh air and a community event. Of course, that popularity means that these events are selling out like crazy — so we’ve rounded up local options to keep your eye on.

Attendance will be limited for every movie event. You’ll need to maintain social distancing (that’s at least six feet away) and use a mask if you need to leave your car.

Where to See Drive-In Movies in Summer 2020

Chicagoland Drive-In Movie Theaters

Chicago Drive-In (Bridgeview and Chicago)

New option in the city and suburbs! As of June 9, 2020, tickets are available for their Bridgeview location and are $30 per car and $50 per car for a preferred parking spot closer to the screen. They have a few tips, such as figuring out how to turn off your headlights before coming to the drive-in and guidelines about social distancing, so we recommend checking out their website for that information and to buy tickets.

ChiTown Movies (Chicago)

ChiTown Futbol in Pilsen transformed their property into a drive-in movie theater this summer to offer another entertainment option. Order popcorn, drinks, wings, or tacos from your car and listen to the film on your FM radio. 

McHenry Outdoor Movie Theater (McHenry)

McHenry Outdoor Movie Theater is about 45 minutes to an hour from Chicago’s west suburbs (give or take depending on your location). ABC7 News covered the theater’s opening earlier in May; check out the video to see an interview with owner Scott Dehn, who showed the first movie free as a gift to the community.)

Their Facebook page has the most up-to-date information on screenings, sell-outs, and rules. (Note that bathrooms are open but concessions are closed.) Currently, they’re screening movies on Friday and Saturdays; starting on Friday, May 23, they’ll show movies every day. The box office opens at 6:30 pm.

Cascade Drive-In (West Chicago)

The Cascade Drive-In closed last year after 58 years of movies. However, according to recent posts on their Facebook page, they are exploring the idea of re-opening. There’s no news yet, but you may want to check back!

Local Drive-In Movie Events

Space is limited at these events, and the (free) tickets are selling out fast. Make sure to register online and secure your spot! If you don’t get in this time, check back for the next round.

Burr Ridge Village Center (Burr Ridge)
First Wednesday of the month, June through October (June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2, and October 7) | 3:30 or 7:00pm
Burr Ridge Village Center is hosting a monthly “Popcorn Popup Drive-In Movies” event! Register in advance; June’s movie is already sold out with a waitlist.

Route 66 Drive-In Movie Theater (Romeoville)
June 12, June 26, July 11, July 24, and August 10 | About 9:00pm
Register in advance for the next movie here; you’ll be entered in a lottery for registration, which will help keep the event’s size limited.

Drive-In Movie Nights (Bolingbrook)
June 25, July 9, July 27 | 8:15pm
When you arrive at this $5 movie event at a local middle school, you’ll get an assigned parking spot and the radio station to tune into the movie’s sound. Bring your own snacks and be aware that restrooms will not be available. June 25’s movie will be Detective Pikachu, July 9’s will be Frozen 2, and July 27’s will be the live-action Aladdin from 2019.

We’re always finding more outdoor fun here on Kidlist, so be sure to check back!